If not for one key reason, Magic Johnson might have continued dominating on the court for many more years. The champion secured 5 NBA titles during his 13-year career and had fate played out differently. We could have seen Johnson shining in the purple and gold for at least 6 or 7 more seasons. Despite his retirement in 1991, the 5X NBA champion remained closely involved with the team for years, but Lakers owner Jeanie Buss shared how Johnson could have spent more days as a player.

In a recent interview with Dwight Howard, Buss discussed how Johnson has worn many hats for the franchise over the years. Like countless fans, she too wonders what could have been, had Johnson not taken the decision of retirement due to his HIV diagnosis. “He only had like a 12 year career until he had to retire because he made a couple comebacks. He got to play in the Olympics in ’92 the first Dream Team but it shortened his career. I mean he could have played 20 years,” Buss said.

“He really is like you know something special and that’s what makes the Laker brand it isn’t just about the team it’s about the people who wear the uniform and their stories and what they go on to do even after they play they done playing basketball,” she further added. Buss also explained how Johnson became the face of the Lakers, attracting the attention of courtside celebrities and forming a close bond with Jerry Buss. 

The owner mentored Johnson, teaching him the business side of the sport, including team ownership. Magic Johnson’s retirement was a shock to many, and even now, his basketball knowledge continues to resonate as he shares insights with fans on social media. 

Magic Johnson was also named the president of the Lakers 

Even after his retirement, Johnson remained one of the most desirable players in the league. He was voted for a starter in the All-Star game. Magic Johnson has always expressed regret over his first retirement, which is probably why he never really left the Lakers. On Buss’ advice, Johnson bought a minority stake in the Los Angeles Lakers, becoming part owner.

He later went on to buy stakes in the Dodgers and the Washington Commanders. Magic Johnson also played in the Olympics in 1992; that same year, in the 1992-93 season, he decided to join the Lakers as a coach. However, Johnson left the job after two years. In 1995, he returned to the Lakers as a player, but to everyone’s disappointment, he retired again in 1996, this time for good.

Later, in 2010, he was named president of the Los Angeles Lakers. Although he no longer holds an executive position or ownership, the bond between Magic Johnson and the franchise has remained unchanged.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger